Nature's Sunshine Shelf Life

Nature’s Sunshine is determined to offer only the finest quality natural health
supplements. Part of that commitment means providing customers with the
freshest products. In an effort to educate you on product freshness, we offer the following information on shelf life, reading lot numbers and storage recommendations.

Storage Recommendations
To maximize quality, products should be stored in a cool, dry area. Heat and humidity degrade products more quickly. Opened liquid drink products should be stored in the refrigerator. Liquid herbs do not require refrigeration. Check the label to be sure.

Lot Numbers
• All Herbs, Vitamins, Minerals and Liquid Herbs have a lot number on them. For example: Lot # 00390934

• The first and last digits (0 & 4) indicate the year (2004) the product was made

• The second & third digits (03) indicate the production month (March)

• The fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh digits indicate the batch number (used in Quality Assurance records).


Read the entire article.
Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

NSP Day After Thanksgiving Sale

Day-After-Thanksgiving Sale - November 28-30 Only!
Start the shopping season off right with top-selling products to support digestion and cope with holiday stress!

Food Enzymes
Helps to support the digestion of proteins, carbohydrates and fats.

Proactazyme® Plus
Aids in the breakdown of most types of food.

Nutri-Calm®
Supports the body during times of stress.

Liquid Chlorophyll
May help support immune response, strengthen cells and deodorize the body.

Click here for pricing and details.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Thanksgiving: Holiday Stress Reducers

Are you having visitors for the holidays? Or will you be visiting other folks and bringing your dog? Following are ways to reduce anxiety for people and pets alike. You'll also find links to helpful articles online that detail how to cope with stressful situations as well as prevent calamities. Many of the safety tips also can be applied to safeguard children. Read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Labrador Collapsing Disorder

September 22, 2008

New test in US uncovers genetic root of Labrador collapsing disorder
Mark Henderson, Science Editor

A test for a common genetic disorder that affects Britain's most popular dog breed has been developed by scientists, providing a potential way for the condition to be controlled or even eliminated.

Between 3 and 5 per cent of labradors suffer from an inherited syndrome called exercise-induced collapse (EIC), in which the dogs lose control of their hind legs after strenuous activity.

Dogs with the condition, which was first observed in the 1990s, start to develop a wobbly gait after between five and fifteen minutes of exercise. Their body temperature rises, and they eventually lose almost all strength in their hind legs.

The collapsing episodes that follow last typically for five to ten minutes, and dogs usually recover completely within half an hour. Nevertheless, it is painful and distressing for the dog, and in rare cases it can be fatal.
read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Petland Inc.

America's largest chain of puppy-selling pet stores, Petland Inc., is also the nation's largest retail supporter of puppy mills. An eight-month investigation by The HSUS reveals that many Petland stores across the country are marketing puppy mill puppies to unsuspecting consumers.

Watch our video, then tell Petland to get out of the puppy-selling business.
Read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

CA Sales Tax on Vet Services Proposed

Governor Schwarzenegger recently announced his plans to add a sales tax on veterinary services as part of his budget plan to stimulate the California economy. This was part of a larger combination of program cuts and revenue increases to solve the multi-billion dollar budget shortfall. It is particularly disturbing that veterinary services were included with “appliance and furniture repair, vehicle repair and golf.” All of the other healing arts professions were excluded from the sales tax proposal.

A special session of the Legislature must be convened to approve the Governor’s plan. The proposal would need to be approved by the Legislature with a two-thirds majority of both the Assembly and the Senate.

The CVMA is strongly opposed to this proposal. Our legislative team has been working hard to get sales tax on veterinary services removed from the Governor’s proposal. We know you are concerned for the welfare of your patients, the difficult choices your clients may need to make if the cost of veterinary care increases, more animals being abandoned to shelters, increased euthanasia, and the overall strain placed on small businesses. Read the entire article.

In your own interest, and that of pet owners in all of California, please write to the Governor and to the legislative leaders below, and ask them to "remove the proposed sales tax on veterinary services in the 2008-09 Special Session proposal".

The Honorable Arnold Schwarzenegger
Governor of California
State Capitol Building
Sacramento, CA 95814
916.558.3160 Fax
---
The Honorable Karen Bass, Speaker of the Assembly
State Capitol, Room 319
Sacramento, CA 95814
916.319.2147 Fax
---
The Honorable Don Perata, Senate President pro Tempore
State Capitol, Room 205
Sacramento, CA 95814
916.327.1997 Fax
---
The Honorable Darrell Steinberg, Senate President pro Tempore
State Capitol, Room 4035
Sacramento, CA 95815
916.323.2263 Fax
---
The Honorable Mike Villines, Assembly Republican Leader
State Capitol, Room 3104
Sacramento, CA 95814
916.319.2129 Fax
---
The Honorable Dave Cogdill, Senate Republican Leader
State Capitol, Room 3048
Sacramento, CA 95814
916.327.3523 Fax

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Melamine Ruling by FDA

On September 12, 2008, in light of reports from China of infant formula contaminated with melamine, the FDA issued a Health Information Advisory to proactively reassure the American public that there is no known threat of contamination in infant formula manufactured by companies that have met the requirements to sell such products in the United States. That advisory also warned members of Asian communities in the United States that infant formula manufactured in China, possibly available for purchase at Asian markets, could pose a risk to infants. No Chinese manufacturers of infant formula have fulfilled the requirements to sell infant formula in the United States.

The FDA contacted the companies that manufacture infant formula for distribution in the United States and received information from the companies that they are not importing formula and do not source milk-based ingredients from China.

In addition, the FDA -– in conjunction with state and local officials – continues to check Asian markets for food items that are imported from China and that could contain a significant amount of milk or milk proteins.

The FDA has broadened its domestic and import sampling and testing of milk-derived ingredients and finished food products containing milk or milk-derived ingredients from Chinese sources. FDA has recommended that consumers not consume certain products because of possible contamination with melamine. A list of those products is below.

Update on FDA’s Investigation


November 13, 2008: As part of its ongoing strategy to address the present problem with melamine contamination of consumer products exported from the People’s Republic of China, FDA has expanded its import controls on Chinese dairy products, and food and feed products manufactured in China that contain dairy ingredients. Since Oct. 10, 2008, FDA has had an import alert in place for specific products found contaminated with melamine and melamine-related compounds. FDA has collected additional information on the scope of the melamine contamination problem in China, and determined a countrywide import alert is warranted.

This action will help ensure that only Chinese dairy products and food and feed products manufactured in China that contain dairy ingredients are not contaminated with melamine and melamine-related compounds reach U.S. consumers. No adverse health effects have been reported in the United States from contamination with melamine of dairy products or dairy containing products. But melamine is not approved for direct addition to human or animal foods and no manufacturer is allowed to deliberately add it to any food for U.S. consumers.

As part of ongoing activities, FDA will also examine a range of protein-containing products beyond just dairy and dairy-containing products for contamination with melamine and melamine-related compounds. FDA will continue to take appropriate regulatory action if these efforts uncover additional contamination.

FDA’s Warnings/Advisories


The FDA is advising consumers not to consume the following products because of possible melamine contamination:

Fresh and Crispy Jacobina Biscuits New!
Koala’s March Crème filled Cookies
YILI Brand Sour Milk Drink
YILI Brand Pure Milk Drink
Blue Cat Flavored Drinks
White Rabbit Candies
Mr. Brown Mandehling Blend Instant Coffee (3-in-1)
Mr. Brown Arabica Instant Coffee (3-in-1)
Mr. Brown Blue Mountain Blend Instant Coffee (3-in-1)
Mr. Brown Caramel Macchiato Instant Coffee (3-in-1)
Mr. Brown French Vanilla Instant Coffee (3-in-1)
Mr. Brown Mandheling Blend instant Coffee (2-in-1)
Mr. Brown Milk Tea (3-in-1)
Infant formula manufactured in China

Read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Super Orac on Sale 50% Off

Nature's Sunshine is offering another wonderful product for 50% off through Saturday.

Super ORAC is a very potent antioxidant. The key with taking antioxidents is to get the highest ORAC value you can since it determines the amount of protection against free radicals. ORAC = Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity

Super ORAC combines eight powerful ingredients known to quench free radicals — decaffeinated green tea leaves, mangosteen pericarp extract, turmeric root, quercetin, resveratrol, apple extract, açaí berry extract and selenium.

Click here to order.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Feeling the Holiday Stress Yet?

It's the time of year when people start feeling the stresses of the holiday season. Looking for something to naturally help you chill out? Try out STRESS-J!

Benefits:

•Promotes natural calming
•Supports proper stress mechanism function.
•Aids proper digestion.
•Provides help for occassional stress relief.

This anti-stress formula provides nutrients to help facilitate proper function of the nervous system. The formula contains one of the most favored herbs of Europe, chamomile, which is known for its calming effects. This combination is designed for occasional stress relief.

Complementary products include B-complex vitamins, bee pollen and vitamin C.

It contains:
Passion flower
Fennel seeds
Feverfew
Hops flowers
Chamomile
Marshmallow root extract

Stress-J is on sale for 2 dollars off this week! Click here to order.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

A Message from Dr. Jean Dodds

Message from Dr. Jean Dodds, Co-trusteeAbout the Rabies Challenge Fund

We have raised the required funds needed to begin the study. The research has begun under the direction of Dr. Ronald Schultz and The University of Wisconsin Foundation. The new challenge is to continue to raise the funds to support year two and cover modest new costs. Continuing to raise the funds is essential so the project can continue.

The Rabies Challenge Fund needs to raise a total of $1.25 million to complete the 5 and 7 year challenge studies. With your help for year two, we are another year closer to making this goal a reality!

This vaccine research project to address the duration of immunity actually conveyed by rabies vaccine will be performed by Dr. Ronald Schultz, Chairman of Pathobiology at the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine. The second phase of the project will finance a study of the adjuvants used in veterinary vaccines, and establish a federal adverse reaction reporting system for rabies and other vaccines.

The University of Wisconsin will donate all of the necessary overhead costs for these studies which normally amount to 48% of the direct research costs. Furthermore, Dr. Schultz, the Principal Investigator, has volunteered his time in conducting the research. My staff at Hemopet are donating their efforts as well. The only monies used from the pre-grant funds were IRS fees associated with applying for non-profit status. All other monies donated to The Rabies Challenge Fund Charitable Trust will go directly to funding these studies.

Visit the site now to donate.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Titer Testing/Vaccinations

Titer Test: Don’t Vaccinate Your Dog Unnecessarily
Written by Jan on October 22, 2008 – 4:29 pm
http://www.dogs4dogs.com/blog/

Enlightened veterinarians and pet parents have become increasingly wary of the health risks, and lack of benefits, associated with repeatedly vaccinating dogs after their initial “puppy shots.” Is titer testing the solution to the over-vaccination problem? Here’s a crash course to help you muddle through the mire of misinformation surrounding this simple blood test, and to help you decide whether or not to test your dog’s antibody titers.

What is titer testing? A titer test (pronounced TIGHT er) is a laboratory test measuring the existence and level of antibodies in blood. Antibodies are produced when an antigen (like a virus or bacteria) provokes an immune response. This response can come from natural exposure or from vaccination. (Note: titering is also called serum vaccine antibody titering and serologic vaccine titering.)

How is the test performed? First, one mL of blood is drawn. The sample is then diluted. Titer levels, expressed as ratios, indicate how many times blood can be diluted before no antibodies are detected. If blood can be diluted a 1000 times and still show antibodies, the ratio would be 1:1000. This is a “strong” titer. A titer of 1:2 would be weak.

Confused? Don’t worry. Your test result will have an explanation of what your animal’s test result means.

Should I test for all diseases? The most recommended test examines antibodies for both parvovirus and distemper, the two most important viruses. Rabies titers are also often tested. Usually, for most dogs, tests for other diseases are generally not considered useful or necessary.

Why test? The parvovirus/distemper test can help you or others (vets, groomers, kennel owners, etc.) determine if your dog requires additional vaccination, and may save your dog unnecessary shots. It is especially useful when making a decision about vaccinating an animal with unknown vaccination history, or for determining if puppies have received immunity from vaccination (more below).

Most experts believe strong titers are a more reliable indication of immunity than vaccination: tests show the actual immune response, not just the attempt to cause an immune response by vaccination. Do not expect, however, that everyone will accept test results in place of proof of vaccination.The subject of immunity is complicated, and we are programmed to think of vaccination as “the gold standard” — the more, the better. Experts who challenge the status quo are often maligned. Humans don’t like change.

How often should I test titers for parvo and distemper? You’re going to have to decide for yourself. Some vets recommend testing yearly, but this can be expensive. Others test every three years. Still others test five to seven years after vaccination. Why? Challenge tests show that successful vaccination against parvovirus gives most animals at least seven years of immunity. Distemper provides immunity for at least five to seven years.*

Dr. Ron Schultz, one of the most renowned pet vaccination experts in the country, believes that once a test yields strong titers, you need not test again.

Does a weak titer mean that the dog needs a “booster” shot? Maybe not for dogs that have previously shown strong titers. Many experts, including Dr. Schultz, say the dog’s immune system will have produced “memory cells” that will produce antibodies when they’re needed. Think of memory cells as reserve forces. When known foreigners invade, they remember how to attack them. Read more about memory cells here.

Should I test my puppy? Yes! If so, when? Ideally, puppies should have had their last vaccination after 16 weeks of age then should be tested to see if further vaccination is necessary. There’s an excellent discussion about testing puppies in the 2006 American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) Canine Vaccine Task Force Report (page 13) entitled What Are The Possible Applications of Serologic Testing? It reads, “Such titer testing is the only way to ensure that a puppy has developed an immune response after vaccinating.”

What do titer tests cost? Testing costs vary widely from practice to practice, so shop around. Some vets do in-house testing. Others use outside labs. Some mark up tests and services a little; others, a lot. You should be able to have parvo/distemper tests done most places for less than $100. Rabies tests, on the other hand, can cost considerably more, in large part because they are sent overnight to a lab. (Ask your vet to have a Titer Testing Day so that they can send multiple tests in one package and save considerably on shipping costs.) Consider contacting Hemopet, Dr. Jean Dodd’s nonprofit organization, for their pricing. When comparative shopping, make sure pricing includes blood draw and shipping.

Wait! Before jumping to the conclusion that vaccinating is much cheaper than testing, remember that testing can be a one-time (or at least rare) expense and is no riskier than any simple blood draw. Vaccinating, on the other hand, can potentially cause a lifetime of illness.

Should I test for rabies antibodies? The rabies titer test will give you an indication of your dog’s immunity if he or she is at particular risk for contracting rabies. It may also be required prior to international travel. Test results will NOT be accepted by Animal Control and most others as a substitute for vaccination of healthy dogs as required by law.

If your dog has documented health problems or documented adverse reactions to shots, your vet may be able to get your dog an exemption to rabies vaccination. (Learn more at www.Truth4Dogs.org.) A rabies titer test is not usually necessary when requesting an exemption but may be useful when re-applying for a denied exemption. It may also give you and others piece of mind if you’re contemplating an exemption.

(Note: a French challenge study has shown rabies vaccination gives immunity for at least five years. In the U.S, the Rabies Challenge Fund is doing concurrent tests for five years and seven years to extend the period between shots. This important nonprofit study is funded solely by donations from dog lovers like you.)

Can I test titers immediately after vaccinating? To get an accurate test, you must wait at least 14 days after vaccination before testing.

What if your vet, groomer, spouse, best friend, kennel owner or day care proprietor says titer testing is “voodoo science,” that your dog needs continued vaccination even if testing indicates otherwise? Know that vets out of school longer than 10 years received little or no immunology or vaccinology training in school; they shouldn’t be considered experts unless they’ve devoted hundreds of hours to research and training. Others who want to influence you may have no training at all and may be acting out of fear. Do your own research and advocate for your dog.

I hope I’ve given you enough information to make reasoned decisions. The subject is hardly black and white; it is riddled with shades of gray. I’d like to thank veterinary crusaders against over-vaccination Drs. Margo Roman and Tamara Hebbler for their help with this article, and Drs. Jean Dodds and Patricia Jordan for answering my many questions about vaccination over the years.

* Challenge studies prove immunity by exposing an animal to a disease. These studies show distemper immunity given by the Rockborn Strain gives 7 years immunity; the Onderstepoort Strain, 5 years. Ask your vet which strain was used to vaccinate your dogs.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Human Food Recall!

ajc.com > Health
AJC HEALTH NEWS
Lean Cuisine recalls three frozen chicken meals
Dinners may contain small pieces of hard plastic, USDA reports
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Nestle Prepared Foods Co. is recalling about 879,565 pounds of frozen chicken meals that may contain foreign materials, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service announced Tuesday.

The following products are subject to recall:

•9.5-ounce packages of Lean Cuisine Pesto Chicken With Bow Tie Pasta brand frozen meals. Printed on each side of each package is a production code of “8280595912” as well as a use-by date of “Best Before May 2010.”

•10.5-ounce packages of Lean Cuisine Chicken Mediterranean brand frozen meals. Printed on the side of each package is a production code of “8231595912” or “8241595912” as well as a use-by date of “Best before Sep 2010”; a production code of “8263595912,” “8269595911” or “8274595912,” as well as a use-by date of “Best before Oct 2010”; or a production code of “8291595912” or “8301595912” as well as a use-by date of “Best before Nov. 2010.”

•12.5-ounce packages of Lean Cuisine Chicken Tuscan brand frozen meals. Printed on the side of each package is a production code of “8234595911” and a use-by date of “Best before Sep 2009”; a production code of “8253595911” or “8269595912” as well as a use-by date of “Best before Oct 2009”; or, a production code of “8292595911” or “8296595911” as well as a use-by date of “Best before Nov 2009.”
Each package also bears the USDA mark of inspection as well as the establishment number “EST P-9018.”

The frozen chicken meals were distributed to retail establishments nationwide.

The problem was discovered after the company received consumer complaints and a report of one injury. The company identified the objects as small pieces of hard plastic. Consumers with questions about the recall should contact Nestle’s Consumer Services Center at (800) 227-6188


Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

New Pet Food Regulations in 2009

Cow Brains, Spinal Cords to be Banned From Pet Food Starting in 2009
by David Gutierrez
www.naturalnews.com

(NaturalNews) Effective April 23, 2009, the FDA has banned a series of cattle products from all animal feed and pet food in attempt to prevent the spread of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), also known as mad cow disease.

BSE is a fatal, degenerative disease of the brain cause by defective proteins known as prions. These prions can be acquired by consuming the flesh of infected animals and lead to a similarly fatal human version of the disease, known as variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease.

Federal regulations already prohibit using ruminant protein as part of the feed given to other ruminants. These measures were instituted in the United States and Canada in 1997, after a mad cow outbreak in the United Kingdom.

Ruminants are animals that chew their cud, such as cows, sheep and goats.

Other U.S. protections against mad cow disease include a partial ban on slaughtering cattle that cannot stand, which are more likely to be infected with BSE, and a requirement that meatpackers remove the spine and brain from all slaughtered animals. These are the body parts most likely to carry mad-cow-causing prions.

The new regulations expand these rules in an attempt to keep BSE prions out of any animal feed, out of awareness that ruminant and non-ruminant feed might contaminate each other during the manufacturing or transport processes, or that ruminants might accidentally be given the wrong kind of feed.

Any animal feed will now be prohibited from containing any materials from a BSE-infected animal; the brain or spinal cord of any cattle aged 30 months or older; materials from any cattle that are aged 30 months or older, have not had their spinal cords removed and have not been inspected and approved for human consumption; tallow containing more than 0.15 percent insoluble purities, or that has been derived from any other prohibited materials; and mechanically separated beef derived from any other prohibited materials.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

NSP 50% Off Sale

Popular Nature's Sunshine Products on Sale - 50% OFF!
November 18 and 19 Only!

Silver Shield with Aqua Sol Technology™
Offers immune system support without the risk of heavy metal contamination.

Ginkgo Gotu Kola with Bacopa
Supports brain function, memory and concentration and promotes optimal circulation to the brain.

EverFlex®
Helps to maintain the integrity and mobility of joints.

Click here to order sale items.


Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Hypoallergenic Dogs

NEW YORK, November 7, 2008
www.aspca.org

The Obamas have stated their need for a “hypoallergenic” dog. Is there such a thing? Why or why not?

The ASPCA® believes strongly in the premise that families should choose a pet that is right for them. Whether their preference is small or large, purebred or non-purebred, they could both find the perfect pet and help an animal in need, which would be an incredible opportunity. The ASPCA® is thrilled at the prospect that the Obama Family wants to ‘make pet adoption their first option’ and head to their local animal shelter or rescue group. We wish them luck in their search and are here to help.

There is no such thing as a truly non-allergenic or hypoallergenic dog.

Dogs (and cats) produce allergenic proteins that can be found in their dander and saliva, regardless of their breed or the length and color of their hair, or lack thereof. Some may produce more - or less - allergens than others simply because of their individual nature.

What traits can lend themselves to hypoallergenic tendencies?

There are two coat types that produce a lesser amount of allergens: single-coated dogs, who do not have a thick undercoat, and hairless dogs. However, even hairless dogs can produce enough dander to affect a highly allergic person. Dogs might be thought to be “hypo-allergenic” because they don’t shed, or they have a springy undercoat doesn't hold much hair or dander.

Can anything besides fur/hair cause allergies?

Allergies can result from other things on a pet's body, such as dander or saliva.

How do you know if you’re allergic to a particular breed?

The potential for allergies to a dog can vary from dog to dog, even within the same breed. The individual adopting a dog needs to spend time with the specific dog, not just the breed type. So, the Obamas, especially their allergy-prone daughter, should spend time with the dog or dogs they’re thinking of adopting to gauge allergic reactions. Read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

10 Rules for Leadership

Ten Rules to Great Leadership with Your Dog or Puppy

Leadership, in short, is the ability to guide, direct
or influence. Nowhere in the definition does it
say “dominate,” intimidate, or control, and yet
over the years many dog trainers skewed and
twisted the definition so out of shape a
contortionist would be hard pressed to keep up.
Even today with all the science to the contrary,
there are popular books and videos for sale that
insist on rough and harsh treatment of dogs to
obtain optimum obedience.

These misshapen ideas leave many pet parents
confused— and if they are confused, just think
how the dog must feel with so many conflicting
messages!

Luckily, there is so much more information about
learning theory, behavior and, frankly, dogs today,
that it is a breath of fresh air to finally let go of
those old ideas and get back to the real meaning
of leadership with our dogs. Read the entire article.


Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

CAPS - dog breeder exposed

CAPS Press Release

National Dog Breeder Prosecuted
Boston’s ABC Affiliate WCVB-5 Airs Expose on Companion Animal Protection Society Undercover Investigation

(Boston, MA) – Since 1997, the Companion Animal Protection Society has been investigating Kathy Bauck the owner and operator of Pick of the Litter in Minnesota, one of the largest national USDA licensed dog brokers that has sent thousands of dogs to pet shops all over the country. After a six week undercover video shot by a CAPS investigator, prosecutors brought nine counts of cruelty and four felony counts, against Ms. Bauck.

Boston’s ABC affiliate Sean Kelly reported Sunday November 9th 2008 that because of the undercover video shot by an investigator for the Companion Animal Protection Society, the owner of the puppy mill is now facing charges. The undercover video shot by a CAPS investigator shows dogs that are sick, wounded and emaciated. A spokesperson for the USDA said the agency found no violations at Bauck's farm during its last inspection in July 2008. However the agency is now reviewing all of the undercover video taken by the CAPS investigator and will determine whether or not further action is warranted. If convicted for a trial set for January 2009, Kathy Bauck will lose her USDA license. For more information please visit www.caps-web.org

CAPS

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Top 10 Poisonous Drugs for Pets

Top 10 Human Medications That Poison Our Pets
www.aspca.org

Although pet parents are well aware of poisons lurking around their home, many don’t realize that some of the biggest culprits are sitting right on their own nightstands. In 2007, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center received 89,000 calls related to pets ingesting over-the-counter and prescription medications. To help you prevent an accident from happening, our experts have created a list of the top 10 human medications that most often poison our furry friends.

If you suspect your pet has ingested any of the following items, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center’s 24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435. And remember to keep all medications tucked away in bathroom cabinets—and far from curious cats and dogs.

NSAIDs

NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen or naproxen are the most common cause of pet poisoning in small animals, and can cause serious problems even in minimal doses. Pets are extremely sensitive to their effects, and may experience stomach and intestinal ulcers and—in the case of cats—kidney damage.

Antidepressants

Antidepressants can cause vomiting and lethargy and certain types can lead to serotonin syndrome—a condition marked by agitation, elevated body temperature, heart rate and blood pressure, disorientation, vocalization, tremors and seizures.

Acetaminophen

Cats are especially sensitive to acetaminophen, which can damage red blood cells and interfere with their ability to transport oxygen. In dogs, it can cause liver damage and, at higher doses, red blood cell damage.

Methylphenidate (for ADHD)

Medications used to treat ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) in people act as stimulants in pets and can dangerously elevate heart rates, blood pressure and body temperature, as well as cause seizures.

Fluorouracil

Fluorouracil—an anti-cancer drug—is used topically to treat minor skin cancers and solar keratitis in humans. It has proven to be rapidly fatal to dogs, causing severe vomiting, seizures and cardiac arrest even in those who’ve chewed on discarded cotton swabs used to apply the medication.

Isoniazid

Often the first line of defense against tuberculosis, isoniazid is particularly toxic for dogs because they don’t metabolize it as well as other species. It can cause a rapid onset of severe seizures that may ultimately result in death.

Pseudoephedrine

Pseudoephedrine is a popular decongestant in many cold and sinus products, and acts like a stimulant if accidentally ingested by pets. In cats and dogs, it causes elevated heart rates, blood pressure and body temperature as well as seizures.

Anti-diabetics

Many oral diabetes treatments—including glipizide and glyburide—can cause a major drop in blood sugar levels of affected pets. Clinical signs of ingestion include disorientation, lack of coordination and seizures.

Vitamin D derivatives

Even small exposures to Vitamin D analogues like calcipotriene and calcitriol can cause life-threatening spikes in blood calcium levels in pets. Clinical signs of exposure—including vomiting, loss of appetite, increased urination and thirst due to kidney failure—often don't occur for more than 24 hours after ingestion.

Baclofen

Baclofen is a muscle relaxant that can impair the central nervous systems of cats and dogs. Some symptoms of ingestion include significant depression, disorientation, vocalization, seizures and coma, which can lead to death.

ASPCA Website.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Echinacea

Echinacea, also called Purple Coneflower, has been one of the most scientifically studied herbs, especially in Europe. Echinacea enhances the body’s own defenses (immune system) and preserves and maintains health. The plant and roots have been used as an antiseptic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory agent.

Allen Schoen, DVM states: “Anecdotal reports from holistic clients and veterinarians suggest that it may be helpful in certain chronic infections. Anecdotes suggest that it has been beneficial in the treatment of chronic upper respiratory infections in cats and dogs. Other reports suggest that it may help boost the immune system in chronic skin infections in dogs.”

Jennifer Prince, DVM states: “The active ingredient in echinacea has not yet been identified. It is suspected to work by inhibiting viral and bacterial breakdown of the body's cell walls, which is a necessary step before the bacteria and viruses can replicate in the body. It may also slow the growth of some types of tumors.”
Read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Noni

Nature’s Noni®, Juice [Immune, Structural, Nervous, Digestive, Intestinal, Respiratory] is Morinda citrifolia fruit juice. The juice contains unique phytonutrients and antioxidants.

Phytonutrients nourish the body’s cells, organs and tissues. They also fight free radical damage caused by harmful chemicals, pollution and a host of other free radical-generating processes. Nature’s Noni juice is particularly useful for promoting healthy skin, healthy joints and a general feeling of well-being. Years of native use suggest that the many benefits of the morinda fruit come from these phytonutrients, antioxidants and its other physiologically unique ingredients.

Nature’s Noni contains reconstituted Morinda citrifolia fruit juice, natural flavors and no preservatives. The natural blend of flavors gives Nature’s Noni juice a pleasant tropical taste.

Read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Ladies First!

By Jennifer Viegas
Oct. 9, 2008

It may not be such a dog-eat-dog world after all, at least among puppies. A new study has found that young male dogs playing with female pups will often let the females win, even if the males have a physical advantage.

Male dogs sometimes place themselves in potentially disadvantageous positions that could make them more vulnerable to attack, and researchers suspect the opportunity to play may be more important to them than winning.

Such self-handicapping has been documented before in red-necked wallabies, squirrel monkeys, hamadryas baboons and even humans, all of which frequently take on defensive positions when playing with youngsters, in particular. Read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Obamas to Adopt a Rescued Dog!

Obamas to Adopt! Thanks, Petition Signers
October 3, 2008 : 11:14 AM
Announcement made on Entertainment Tonight
By Jon Dunn, Best Friends staff
Congratulations!!

Just a few months ago, we came together as animal lovers and told America how rewarding adoption can be. 50,000 of you signed a petition in just a couple of weeks (a record for Best Friends!) to ask the Obamas to ADOPT their dog after the election was over.

We are thrilled to share this wonderful news: Michelle Obama announced on Entertainment Tonight that they would indeed, “adopt a rescue dog.”

As you know, adoption is an amazing gift of life to a homeless animal… and it is something that all of us, no matter our political leaning, can enthusiastically support. The Obama family’s decision to adopt will be a great example, and will result in many dogs and cats being saved from euthanasia across the country. This is exactly what we hoped for when we launched obamafamilydog.com and we hope you feel as proud as we do about this development.

Thank you for helping us spread the message about the importance of adopting. Now let’s build on our momentum… there are many ways that you can continue to work with Best Friends to help save lives. From fighting puppy mills to raising awareness of the issues of overpopulation, to our work that takes place every day here at the Sanctuary in Southern Utah, none of it can be done without you.

Read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Cat Food Recall

Mars Petcare US Issues Voluntary Recall of a Limited Number of Bags of SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Sold at Wal-Mart locations in Fifteen States due to Potential Salmonella Contamination
Contact: Debra Fair, MARS PETCARE US, (973) 691-3536

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- FRANKLIN, Tenn. – October 27, 2008 – Mars Petcare US today announced a voluntary recall of a limited number of bags of SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend dry cat food sold at Wal-Mart locations in Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Vermont, and West Virginia. The pet food is being voluntarily recalled following a positive test result indicating a potential contamination with Salmonella.

This product should not be sold or fed to pets. Pet owners should dispose of product in a safe manner (example, a securely covered trash receptacle) and return the empty bag to the store where purchased for a full refund.

Product: SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend Dry Cat Food
Best If Used By Date: AUG 11 09
Best If Used By Date Location: Back of bag

Production Lot Code: 50 XXXX X (Found on back of bag just after "Best If Used By" date. Consumers should look for "50" as the first two digits of the second line.)
UPC Code: UPC code numbers can be found directly underneath the bar code on the package. Please find recalled pet food UPC information below.

3.5 lb. SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend
81131 17546

7 lb. SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend
81131 17547

18 lb. SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend
81131 17548


Read the full recall notice.
Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Red Yeast Rice/Fish Oil and Cholesterol

Simvastatin vs Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes and Supplements: Randomized Primary Prevention Trial

DAVID J. BECKER, MD; RAM Y. GORDON, MD; PATTI B. MORRIS, RD; JACQUELINE YORKO, MED; Y. JEROLD GORDON, MD; MINGYAO LI, PHD; NAYYAR IQBAL, MD, MSCE

OBJECTIVE: To compare the lipid-lowering effects of an alternative regimen (lifestyle changes, red yeast rice, and fish oil) with a standard dose of a 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitor (statin).

PATIENTS AND METHODS: This randomized trial enrolled 74 patients with hypercholesterolemia who met Adult Treatment Panel III criteria for primary prevention using statin therapy. All participants were randomized to an alternative treatment group (AG) or to receive simvastatin (40 mg/d) in this open-label trial conducted between April 1, 2006, and June 30, 2006. The alternative treatment included therapeutic lifestyle changes, ingestion of red yeast rice, and fish oil supplements for 12 weeks. The simvastatin group received medication and traditional counseling. The primary outcome measure was the percentage change in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Secondary measures were changes in other lipoproteins and weight loss.

RESULTS: There was a statistically significant reduction in LDL-C levels in both the AG (–42.4%±15%) (P<.001) and the simvastatin group (–39.6%±20%) (P<.001). No significant differences were noted between groups. The AG also demonstrated significant reductions in triglycerides (–29% vs –9.3%; 95% confidence interval, –61 to –11.7; P=.003) and weight (–5.5% vs –0.4%; 95% confidence interval, –5.5 to –3.4; P<.001) compared with the simvastatin group.

CONCLUSION: Lifestyle changes combined with ingestion of red yeast rice and fish oil reduced LDL-C in proportions similar to standard therapy with simvastatin. Pending confirmation in larger trials, this multifactorial, alternative approach to lipid lowering has promise for a subset of patients unwilling or unable to take statins.

Trial Registration:clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT0042
Mayo Clin Proc. 2008;83(7):758-764.

Read More About the Supplements Mentioned in the Article:

Red Yeast Rice.
Omega3 Fish Oil.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Cleanliness is Next to Catliness

THE FELINE BEHAVIOR SERIES
Paul D. Pion DVM, DipACVIM (Cardiology) and Gina Spadafori
VeterinaryPartner.com


Cleanliness is Next to Catliness

Cats are fastidious animals, and if the litter box is dirty, they look elsewhere for a place to go. Think of how you felt the last time you were faced with a dirty public restroom, and you can probably empathize!

So how clean is the litter box? Is it something you "get around to" every few days, or maybe just on the weekend? Do you wait until you can't stand the smell of it, of the lumpy-clumpy sight of it, before you clean? And even then, do you really clean it, or do you simply half-heartedly fish out a few stools or clumps and add more litter? If you don't keep the litter box clean, you can't expect your cat to use it. You need to start with a clean box and keep it clean.

Starting Out Clean
Even if the box you bought is brand new, give it a good scrubbing with hot water and soap, rinse well, and let it air dry. Cats have a much better sense of smell than we do, and they may be put off by the odor a new box has picked up through its manufacturing, shipping, and storage before you bought it.

If the box has been used before, follow the soap-and-water scrub with a bleach soak - one-half cup to a gallon of water will do - and then rinse, rinse, rinse and allow to air dry. Diluted bleach is a safe disinfectant, but other types of disinfectant shouldn't be used - their lingering scent may cause more harm than good. Ammonia, for example, shares some chemical properties with urine and can make a clean box smell dirty to a cat.

Keeping It Clean
All the scrubbing in the world isn't going to help you if you offer your cat a clean box and then don't bother to keep it that way. Some cats are so fussy that a box that has been used even once may be unsuitable. If you can't scoop immediately - and honestly, not many of us can - try to scoop twice a day, or daily at least.

You can almost always offer your cat a clean bathroom if you provide two litter boxes, placed side by side. Some cats even prefer the two-box system: They urinate in one and defecate in the other.

Don't forget that even when you're very good about scooping frequently, you'll still have to scrub out and disinfect your litter box completely on a regular basis. When in doubt, clean it out!

Some people use plastic liners to make cleaning easier. Problem is, some cats don't like them - they find the odor offensive or they don't like the feel of the plastic underfoot when their claws catch on them.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.